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How to House Train a Yorkie Dog

By Pawform Editorial Team · Updated October 14, 2026 · 4 min read

Understanding Your Yorkie’s Needs

To successfully house train your Yorkie dog, it’s essential to understand their unique needs. Yorkies are small, intelligent dogs with strong personalities but also with small bladders. This means they may need to go outside more frequently than larger breeds. Generally, expect your Yorkie to need potty breaks every 2-3 hours, especially when they are young or newly adopted.

Setting Up a Schedule

Creating a potty schedule is key in house training. Here’s how to get started:

1. Establish a Routine: Take your Yorkie out first thing in the morning, after meals, after playtime, and before bedtime.
2. Use a Timer: Set reminders on your phone or write down a schedule. This helps in being consistent with potty breaks.
3. Observe Behaviors: Learn to recognize signs that indicate your Yorkie needs to go outside, such as sniffing, circling, or whining.

Choosing the Right Potty Spot

Selecting and consistently using a designated potty area is crucial. Here’s how to do it:

1. Pick a Peferred Spot: Choose a specific outdoor location where you’ll take your Yorkie for potty breaks. This spot should be a place where they’ll clearly be able to relieve themselves.
2. Familiar Scents Matter: Use this spot consistently to build familiarity. Not only does it help your dog understand where to go, but the scents will encourage them to return to that area.

Harnessing the Power of Positive Reinforcement

Positive reinforcement is effective for house training. Follow these steps:

1. Immediate Praise: As soon as your Yorkie successfully goes potty in the right spot, give them enthusiastic praise or a treat. Timing is crucial!
2. Use Commands: Incorporate simple phrases like “go potty” while taking them to the designated spot. Over time, they will associate the command with the action.
3. Keep Treats Handy: Keep small treats or their favorite toy nearby for quick rewards. This builds an association between the action and the reward.

Dealing with Accidents

Accidents happen! Here’s what to do:

1. Stay Calm: If your Yorkie has an accident indoors, don’t scold them. Instead, calmly clean it up with an enzyme cleaner to remove any trace of the smell.
2. Redirect Behavior: If you catch your Yorkie in the act, redirect them outside without punishment. Praise them if they finish outside.
3. Increase Supervision: When indoors, keep an eye on your Yorkie to prevent accidents. Use gates or a leash to maintain control if needed.

Crate Training as a Tool

Crate training can be a beneficial approach to house training your Yorkie:

1. Choose the Right Crate Size: Make sure the crate is just big enough for your Yorkie to stand, turn around, and lie down. Too much space can lead to bathroom accidents.
2. Use the Crate Wisely: Gradually introduce the crate as a safe space. Use it for short periods while rewarding your Yorkie when they stay quiet.
3. Establish a Routine: Create a routine for crate time, including taking your Yorkie outside immediately after they come out. This builds the connection between the crate and bathroom breaks.

Handling Age and Health Considerations

When house training a Yorkie, consider age variations:

• Puppies: Young Yorkies often have limited bladder control. Be patient and understand they may need more frequent potty breaks.
• Senior Dogs: If your Yorkie is older and suddenly has accidents, it may indicate health issues. Always consult your vet if this behavior occurs.

Incorporating Brain Games for Training Success

Engaging your Yorkie’s mind can enhance house training success:

1. Mental Stimulation Matters: Incorporate brain games and training exercises to keep your Yorkie mentally stimulated, which can help them focus better during house training.
2. Try the Program: Consider Adrienne Farricelli’s Brain Training for Dogs to boost your Yorkie’s obedience through fun games.
3. Routine with Variety: Mix up your training routine with different activities to keep your Yorkie intrigued and eager to learn.

Consistency and Patience Are Key

Finally, remember that consistency and patience are essential to house training your Yorkie:

• Stay Regular: Stick to the schedule and continue reinforcing positive behavior.
• Celebrate Progress: Celebrate small successes to keep you and your Yorkie motivated.
• Be Patient: Every dog learns at their own pace. Expect that your Yorkie may have accidents along the way, and stay committed to the training process.

By following these steps, you’ll be well on your way to house training your Yorkie successfully. Remember, every effort you make contributes to building a loving and trusting relationship with your furry friend. With time, patience, and positive reinforcement, you’ll create a happy home together!